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The Atlanta Hawks (21-25) host the Phoenix Suns (27-17) tonight at State Farm Arena in a matchup that pits a surging Western Conference contender against a Hawks squad looking to build momentum at home.
Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, with the game airing on FanDuel Sports Southeast locally, and available via League Pass nationally. The Suns enter as modest favorites (around -2.5 to -3.5 points depending on the book), with an over/under sitting near 231.5-233.5 in what projects to be a high-scoring affair.
Hawks vs. Suns: What To Know
Phoenix has found its groove lately, riding a three-game winning streak into Atlanta as they wrap up a challenging six-game East Coast road swing. With Jalen Green back in the lineup providing a spark, the Suns have looked more balanced and explosive. Devin Booker remains the centerpiece, averaging around 27.7 points and dishing out 6+ assists per game, while the team boasts one of the league’s better defensive ratings on the season (allowing just 111.8 points per game).
Phoenix sits sixth in the Western Conference at 27-17 and has been particularly strong away from home lately (13-12 on the road overall). They’re shooting efficiently (48.5% from the field projected) and hitting 16+ threes per game at a high clip.
Whether you’re tailgating at State Farm Arena in spirit or settling in from your couch in Midtown, here’s everything you need to know to catch the action live.
Game Details
- Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Location: State Farm Center, Atlanta, Ga.
- Tickets: Available via NBA.com or secondary markets like Ticketmaster.
How To Watch the Hawks Game
- TV Broadcast: Catch the game live on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) for the Hawks’ feed. Raptors fans north of the border can watch on Sportsnet. No national TV tonight – this one’s a local showdown.
- Streaming Options:
- Available on FuboTV (with a free trial for new users), Amazon Prime Video, or services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV that carry FDSSE.
- Stream via NBA League Pass (activate on the NBA app or website for live and on-demand access).
- Out-of-market viewers: NBA League Pass has you covered, but local blackouts apply in the Atlanta area.
- Radio: Tune into the flagship station 92.9 The Game (92.9 FM / 680 AM) on the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network for play-by-play with Steve Holman, Mike Conti, and the crew. Stream it free on the NBA app or Audacy.
- In-Person: Doors open at 6 p.m. at State Farm Arena (1 State Farm Dr.). Tickets start around $25 on Ticketmaster or the Hawks app – snag ’em quick for that electric opener vibe. Public transit tip: MARTA’s Five Points station is your best bet to beat the traffic.
Whether you’re courtside, tailgating in the Gulch, or kicking back on the couch with some wings, we’ve got you covered on every way to watch the action.
Here’s your ultimate guide to tuning in:
Television Broadcast
Catch the game live on your local channels for that classic big-screen vibe:
- Hawks Fans in Atlanta: Tune to FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) for Bob Rathbun’s play-by-play and pre-game analysis from the State Farm Arena broadcast booth. foxsports1400.iheart.com
- Thunder Fans Out West: FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma (FDSOK) and KWTV in the OKC market will have the call. foxsports1400.iheart.com
- National Coverage: NBA TV brings the matchup to viewers across the country, perfect for out-of-town ATLiens. foxsports1400.iheart.com
Pro tip: Use a VPN if you’re traveling and hit a blackout—keeps the hoops flowing no matter where you roam.Radio BroadcastOld-school audio magic? Crank up the dial for immersive play-by-play:
Game Analysis: Hawks vs. Suns
Recent head-to-head battles have been close and entertaining, often going down to the wire with plenty of points. Expect another offensive showcase at State Farm Arena.
Atlanta has hovered around .500 much of the season and currently sits 10th in the East at 21-25. The Hawks are coming off a gritty road win (124-122 at Memphis on Jan. 21), but their home record remains middling at 7-13. Trae Young continues to orchestrate the offense with elite playmaking, while Jalen Johnson has emerged as a two-way force (around 21 points, 9-10 rebounds, and 7+ assists per game in recent projections). The frontcourt depth, including contributions from players like Dyson Daniels on defense, gives Atlanta a chance to disrupt Phoenix’s rhythm.
The Hawks have shown flashes of high-octane offense but have struggled with consistency on the defensive end and rebounding battles.
Hawks fans, get loud – this one’s going to be fun! Tickets are available at Hawks.com. Follow us for live updates and postgame reaction.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Devin Booker vs. Atlanta’s perimeter defense — Can the Hawks limit Booker’s mid-range mastery and force him into tougher shots?
- Jalen Johnson vs. Suns’ frontcourt — Johnson’s athleticism and versatility could be crucial in containing drives and crashing the glass.
- Three-point shooting battle — Both teams live by the arc; Phoenix has been slightly more efficient, but Atlanta’s home crowd could fuel a hot shooting night.
Final Word
This feels like a game where the Suns’ momentum and overall talent edge could carry them, but the Hawks have the firepower to keep it close — especially if Trae and Jalen get going early. Expect a fun, up-tempo contest with plenty of scoring.
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PGA TOUR Superstore is set to tee off its newest Atlanta location with a grand opening in Buckhead on Saturday, March 7.
The store, located at Buckhead Square, 3255 Peachtree Road, will welcome shoppers starting at 9:00 a.m. Early birds lining up for the debut can score thousands of dollars in merchandise giveaways.
New PGA TOUR Superstore Set To Open in Atlanta
As the nation’s top destination for golf gear, the 30,000-square-foot facility offers an extensive lineup of clubs, apparel, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and juniors—catering to beginners and seasoned players alike.
“We’re thrilled to bring the full PGA TOUR Superstore experience to Buckhead,” said CEO Troy Rice. “Atlanta is our hometown and as the home of Bobby Jones, the TOUR Championship at East Lake, and now Atlanta Drive Golf Club, the city has long had a meaningful connection to golf and its growing popularity today.
The game continues to bring people together, and we’re eager to open our doors and welcome the in-town Atlanta community.”
The store stands out with hands-on, experiential features, including the PGA TOUR Superstore STUDIO™ for enhanced instruction and fittings. Shoppers will find five fitting bays and two practice/play bays, all equipped with TRACKMAN technology and access to more than 65,000 club and shaft combinations from leading manufacturers.
Additional everyday amenities include lessons from certified teaching professionals, club regripping and repair services, a 900-square-foot putting green, and a golf simulator showroom.
Customers can explore simulator options ranging from basic mat setups to premium systems complete with launch monitors, software, and enclosures ideal for home use.
Owned by Atlanta icon Arthur M. Blank—co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, Atlanta Drive Golf Club, the new Atlanta NWSL team, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium—PGA TOUR Superstore is headquartered in metro Atlanta.
The company employs hundreds of local residents and has earned Great Place to Work™ certification for five consecutive years.
The Buckhead store will become the fourth in the region, joining existing locations in Roswell, Kennesaw, and Duluth.
In the lead-up to the March 7 opening, PGA TOUR Superstore plans a series of golf-themed activations across Atlanta, featuring pop-up putting challenges, swing clinics, and community events to build excitement.
Golf enthusiasts in intown Atlanta won’t have to wait much longer to check out the new spot—mark your calendars for March 7 and get ready to swing by.
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The Atlanta Falcons have officially named Kevin Stefanski as the team’s new head coach, marking a major step in the franchise’s rebuild under new leadership.
Stefanski, 43, a two-time Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year (2020 and 2023), was hired late Saturday night after an in-person meeting with owner Arthur M. Blank, and Matt Ryan as their new President of Football Operations.
and other Falcons executives in Atlanta.He becomes the 20th head coach in franchise history and will report directly to Ryan, the former Falcons quarterback and Hall of Fame-caliber leader now guiding the football side.
Stefanski succeeds Raheem Morris, who was fired as head coach along with the general manager,who was not retained after the 2025 season ended with an 8-9 record—marking the team’s eighth straight non-winning campaign.
“We’re thrilled to land a lead-by-example leader in Kevin Stefanski,” Ryan said in a statement. “He brings a clear vision for his staff, our team and a closely aligned focus on building this team on fundamentals, toughness and active collaboration with every area of the football operation.”
Ryan highlighted Stefanski’s emphasis on accountability, a player-driven culture, and tight coordination between coaching, scouting, and personnel—qualities the Falcons believe will help maximize the talent already on the roster.
Stefanski arrives in Atlanta after six seasons as head coach of the Cleveland Browns, where he compiled a 45-56 record.
His standout achievements included guiding Cleveland to the playoffs in 2020 (their first since 2002 and first postseason win since 1994) with an 11-5 mark, and again in 2023 with an 11-6 finish—earning Coach of the Year honors both times.
His Browns teams were consistently strong in the run game, posting multiple top-six rankings in rushing yards per game.
Before Cleveland, Stefanski spent 14 years with the Minnesota Vikings, rising from various assistant roles to offensive coordinator under coaches like Brad Childress, Leslie Frazier, and Mike Zimmer.
“I’m beyond thrilled to be charged with leading this iconic franchise,” Stefanski said. “I am grateful to Mr. Blank and Matt Ryan for trusting me to coach this football team and there are many talented players on our roster that I cannot wait to coach. We share a vision for this football team that I believe will make Falcons fans everywhere proud.”
He added that he plans to move quickly to assemble a top-tier coaching staff and connect with the organization’s key personnel.
Blank praised the hire, calling Stefanski a coach with “the right vision, focus and demeanor to lead our team into the future.”
He emphasized the shared commitment to winning games and contending for championships annually, promising full support and resources for Stefanski’s success.
Stefanski, a Philadelphia native and former University of Pennsylvania defensive back (two-time All-Ivy League selection), is married to Michelle and has three children: Juliette, Will, and Gabe.
The move comes as the Falcons look to turn the corner with standout young talents like running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, tight end Kyle Pitts, and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (who is recovering from a 2025 ACL injury).
Stefanski’s track record as an offensive-minded coach—particularly in developing rushing attacks and quarterback play—could prove a strong fit.
Falcons fans in Atlanta and across the region now turn their attention to the offseason: building out the staff, addressing the still-vacant general manager role, and positioning the team for a competitive 2026 campaign.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on the new era under Coach Stefanski. Rise Up!
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Get ready for an epic showdown! This Monday, January 19, 2026, the college football season reaches its thrilling conclusion with the College Football Playoff National Championship Presented by AT&T
In a historic matchup, the undefeated No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers (15-0) face off against the hometown No. 10 Miami Hurricanes (13-2) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida — Miami’s own home field!
How To Watch Indiana Vs. Miami on Monday Night
This is a clash for the ages: Indiana, led by Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, chases the program’s first-ever national title and a perfect season under coach Curt Cignetti.
Meanwhile, Miami, coached by Mario Cristobal (a former Hurricanes national champion player), aims for their first crown since 2001 — and the chance to win it all right at home, a first in the modern playoff era.
College Football Championship Game Details
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m. ET (Pregame coverage, including ESPN’s College GameDay, starts at 5:00 p.m. ET)
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
- Teams: No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers vs. No. 10 Miami Hurricanes
How to WatchThe game airs nationally on ESPN, with ESPN’s signature MegaCast offering multiple viewing options across networks for every fan preference.TV Broadcast:
- Main telecast: ESPN — Call by Chris Fowler (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst), and sideline reporters Holly Rowe and Molly McGrath.
- Additional feeds include ESPN2 (Field Pass with The Pat McAfee Show), ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ACC Network, ESPN Deportes (Spanish-language), and more.
Streaming Options:
- Stream live on the ESPN App or WatchESPN (requires TV provider login or compatible streaming subscription).
- Available on services that carry ESPN. Want to stream for free? FuboTV offers a free trial. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and others.
- The full game is presented in stunning 4K UHD on select providers like Comcast, DIRECTV, Dish Network, Optimum, Sling TV, Verizon, and YouTube TV.
Radio:
- National broadcast on ESPN Radio.
- Local “Hometown Radio” feeds available via the ESPN App for each team’s announcers.
Additional Viewing Tips:
- Catch wall-to-wall pregame and postgame coverage on ESPN networks, including studio shows and highlights.
- Halftime marching band performances from the Indiana University Marching Hundred and Miami’s Frost Band of the Hour stream on ESPN+ (All-22 view).
This is must-see TV for any college football fan — a Cinderella run for Indiana versus a home-field dream for Miami. Whether you’re rooting for the Hoosiers to make history or the Hurricanes to claim South Florida glory, don’t miss it!Tune in Monday night and enjoy the game. Who do you think will hoist the trophy? Let us know in the comments!
Local Watch Parties and Best Bars in Atlanta
Nothing beats the energy of watching with fellow fans, especially for the Georgia game. Atlanta’s sports bar scene is buzzing today, with many spots decked out in red and black.
Here are some top recommendations based on local vibes, screen setups, and game-day specials:
- Park Tavern in Piedmont Park: Come for the massive indoor/outdoor screens, sound on for all games, bottomless mimosas, and a heated patio.
- The Nook on Piedmont Park: A go-to for football games with multiple TVs, a covered patio, and game-day eats like totchos. It’s especially popular among out-of-town alumni groups.
- Marlow’s Tavern (Multiple Locations, e.g., Vinings or Midtown): Upscale pub fare with plenty of screens. Their Cumberland location is a hotspot for NFL games, offering specials like $5 drafts during touchdowns.
- Woofs Atlanta (Midtown): A lively sports bar with 30+ TVs, known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong drinks. Great for groups watching the entire day.
- Wicked Wolf (Downtown): High-energy spot with giant projectors, wings, and beer towers. It’s a favorite for big games, with no cover charge today.
- AMG Lounge (Buckhead): Newer venue with top ratings for NFL watch parties, but equally suited for CFP—think plush seating and craft cocktails.
- College Football Hall of Fame (Downtown Atlanta): Not just a museum— they’re hosting a free viewing event in their atrium with big screens, interactive exhibits, and food trucks. A family-friendly option to catch the games while soaking in football history.
Want more local options? Check out our Best Atlanta Sports Bars Guide.
For Georgia-specific watch parties, check alumni groups like the Atlanta Dawg Club, which often gathers at spots like Hudson Grille in Midtown. Reservations are recommended, as spots fill up fast on playoff days.
If you’re hosting at home, local spots like Your 3rd Spot in West Midtown offer takeout packages with game-ready platters.
Radio and Audio Options
If you’re driving around Atlanta or prefer audio commentary, tune in via radio:
- National Broadcast: ESPN Radio (available on SiriusXM Channel 80 or the ESPN app) with full coverage of all games.
- Local for Georgia Game: The Bulldogs’ flagship station is 680 The Fan (WXIA-AM) in Atlanta, with Scott Howard, Eric Zeier, and D.J. Shockley on the call. Stream via the Georgia Bulldogs app or TuneIn.
- Ole Miss Feed: For Rebels fans, check 97.3 FM in Atlanta affiliates or the Ole Miss Sports Network app.
Additional Tips for Atlanta Fans
- Traffic and Parking: If heading to a bar near Piedmont Park or Downtown, use MARTA or rideshares—post-New Year’s traffic could be heavy, especially around evening rush for the Sugar Bowl.
- Betting and Odds: Georgia is favored by 6.5 points with an over/under of 55.5—check apps like FanDuel or DraftKings for live lines (legal in Georgia via mobile).
- Family-Friendly Viewing: The College Football Hall of Fame event is ideal for kids, or stream at home with ESPN’s multi-view feature to flip between games.
- Post-Game Coverage: Stick with us here at AtlantaFi.com for recaps, highlights, and analysis—especially if Georgia advances to the semifinals at the Peach Bowl on January 9 right here in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dawg or just love the playoff drama, today’s games are must-see TV. Go Bulldogs, and happy New Year from all of us in Atlanta!
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The College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta is set to unveil a powerful new exhibit titled Ascension: Rise of the Black Quarterback, chronicling the groundbreaking journey of Black quarterbacks in college football.
The exhibit, presented by Kia and Coca-Cola as part of the Hall’s Black History Month programming, will open ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and remain on display through early summer.
CF Hall of Fame Launches Exhibit Honoring Black Quarterbacks
It offers an immersive look at the evolution of Black quarterbacks—from eras of exclusion, stereotypes, and limited opportunities to their emergence as innovative leaders and elite performers at the game’s most scrutinized position.
Through compelling storytelling, rare historical artifacts, and data-driven analysis, Ascension directly addresses longstanding myths about intelligence, leadership, and athletic ability that historically barred Black athletes from the quarterback role.
The exhibit highlights the pivotal contributions of generations of players, coaches, and programs—especially those at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—that transformed the sport and paved the way for today’s landscape. Notably, Black quarterbacks now make up 50% of NFL starters for the first time in league history.
“Ascension tells a story that every fan and every young athlete should understand,” said Kimberly Beaudin, President and CEO of the College Football Hall of Fame. “It recognizes the barriers Black quarterbacks overcame and celebrates how their leadership, innovation, and excellence continue to shape the future of college football.”
The exhibit begins with early pioneers like Wade Hampton of Livingstone College and G.E. Ceasar of Biddle University, who faced off in the first documented HBCU football game in 1892.
It then spotlights iconic figures including Fritz Pollard, Charlie Ward, Steve McNair, Cam Newton, Lamar Jackson, and many others.
Visitors will explore how visionary HBCU coaches such as Eddie Robinson, John Merritt, and Archie Cooley introduced pro-style and high-powered offenses that prepared Black quarterbacks for success at the college and professional levels.
Among the standout artifacts on display—some on loan from the Pro Football Hall of Fame—are:
- Jimmy Jones’ 1969 replica USC helmet and a copy of Sports Illustrated featuring Jones on the cover, marking the first Black quarterback to appear on the magazine’s cover.
- Doug Williams’ 1977 letterman jacket from Grambling State University.
- Steve McNair’s 1994 SWAC First Team All-Conference Plaque.
- Bryce Young’s 2021 Alabama jersey.
- Jayden Daniels’ 2023 LSU helmet and headband.
Additional highlights include a comprehensive list of every Black quarterback who has won a Division I National Championship, along with those who claimed the Heisman Trophy.
As part of its mission to preserve and celebrate the complete history of college football, the College Football Hall of Fame presents Ascension as an opportunity for reflection on past struggles, recognition of progress, and deeper understanding of the sport’s ongoing evolution.
Fans, families, students, and visitors are encouraged to experience this timely and inspiring exhibit. For more details, including hours of operation, ticket prices, and visitor guidelines, visit cfbhall.com.
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The Atlanta Falcons have officially named legendary quarterback Matt Ryan as their new President of Football Operations.
The announcement, made Tuesday, Jan. 13 at a packed press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marks a triumphant homecoming for the man who once led the team to Super Bowl glory and now steps into a pivotal front-office role to shape the franchise’s future.
In his first remarks as president, Ryan expressed gratitude and enthusiasm: “I am so excited to be a part of this organization. I didn’t know much about the city before I got here, and now here we are, however years later, and it’s home. It really is.”
“I’m at the same table, but my seat has changed,” Ryan said, alluding to his new role in the organization. “There is a sense of unfinished business. We were close at times and had some success here and there, but i truly believe we’re going to get there.”
Matt Ryan: ‘There’s a Sense of Unfinished Business‘
Blank said that the Falcons interviewed five people, including Ryan. Fresh off the firing of their head coach and general manager, the Falcons are looking for Ryan to immediately work on filling those positions.
Ryan, affectionately known as “Matty Ice” during his 14-year tenure with the Falcons, retired from playing in 2023 after a storied career that included stints with the Indianapolis Colts.
A first-round draft pick out of Boston College in 2008, he quickly became the face of the franchise, amassing over 59,000 passing yards, 367 touchdowns, and earning the NFL MVP award in 2016.
At the end of that same season, he orchestrated one of the most memorable campaigns in Falcons history, guiding the team to Super Bowl LI with his poise under pressure and pinpoint accuracy.
After hanging up his cleats, Ryan transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and philanthropy, but his heart never strayed far from Atlanta. Blank praised the decision, stating, “He led us through the most successful 14 years of our franchise. Everything between football and grass he is responsible for.”
The role of President of Football Operations places Ryan at the helm of the team’s football strategy, overseeing scouting, player personnel, coaching staff decisions, and long-term roster planning. This comes at a crucial time for the Falcons, who have been rebuilding since their last playoff appearance in 2017.
With a young core including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Bijan Robinson, Ryan’s expertise could be the catalyst for a return to contention in the NFC South.
Local fans are buzzing about the hire. “Matt Ryan back in the fold? That’s huge for us,” said longtime season ticket holder Jamal Thompson. “He knows what it takes to win here—no one’s better equipped to fix our front office.”
As the Falcons gear up for the offseason, Ryan’s immediate priorities include evaluating free agency targets, preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, and fostering a culture of excellence. Insiders suggest he may draw from his experiences under coaches like Mike Smith and Dan Quinn to implement data-driven decisions and innovative training regimens.
This appointment isn’t just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a strategic play to leverage Ryan’s deep football IQ and Atlanta roots. For a franchise hungry for success, Matty Ice’s return could be the chill factor that turns the heat up on the competition.
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In a move that’s already sending shockwaves through the Dirty South sports scene, the Atlanta Falcons announced Saturday, Jan. 10 that franchise icon Matt Ryan has been named the team’s new President of Football.
Owner and Chairman Arthur M. Blank made the blockbuster hire official on Saturday, bringing back the former NFL MVP to lead all football operations for the organization.
Matt Ryan Named President of Atlanta Falcons Football
Ryan, who spent 14 unforgettable seasons under center for the Falcons (2008-2021), assumes the role immediately.
He’ll report directly to Blank and work closely with President and CEO Greg Beadles to align football and business sides of the team.
Both the incoming head coach and general manager — positions currently open following last week’s firings of Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot — will report directly to Ryan, giving the 2016 league MVP final say on major football decisions.
“Throughout his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta, Matt’s leadership, attention to detail, knowledge of the game and unrelenting drive to win made him the most successful player in our franchise’s history,” Blank said in a statement. “From his playing days to his time as an analyst at CBS, Matt has always been a student of the game, and he brings an astute understanding of today’s NFL, as well as unique knowledge of our organization and this market. I have full confidence and trust in Matt as we strive to deliver a championship caliber team for Atlanta and Falcons fans everywhere.”
Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft out of Boston College, holds virtually every major passing record in Falcons history: 59,735 yards, 367 touchdowns, a 94.6 passer rating, and a franchise-best 120-102 regular-season record.
He led Atlanta to five playoff appearances, two NFC Championship games, and a Super Bowl run in 2016, when he earned NFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and first-team All-Pro honors.
After a one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts and three seasons as a respected CBS Sports analyst, Ryan is back where it all began.
“Arthur gave me the chance of a lifetime almost twenty years ago, and he’s done it again today,” Ryan said. “While I appreciate the time I had with the Colts and with CBS, I’ve always been a Falcon. It feels great to be home. I could not be more excited, grateful, or humbled by this new opportunity.”
Ryan emphasized his commitment to rebuilding the culture in Flowery Branch: “I know first-hand what a great foundation this organization has and I’m confident we can build on that and cement a culture of accountability, tenacity, resilience and winning… My commitment to the success of this franchise has not changed. I’m beyond ready to help write a new chapter of excellence.”
The Falcons have missed the playoffs for eight straight seasons — a drought that started before Ryan’s final year as starter in 2021.
Fans are hoping the return of “Matty Ice” signals a new era of competitiveness for the black and red.
Ryan will jump straight into the search for Atlanta’s next head coach and general manager, with the team expected to move quickly.
Welcome home, Matt. Rise Up.
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With fewer than 160 days until the first kickoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta is preparing to welcome soccer fans from across the world for eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches scheduled between mid-June and mid-July.
As the city gears up for this massive international event, MARTA officials are assuring residents and visitors that the transit system will be fully prepared to handle the surge in riders heading to and from the stadium.
MARTA’s FIFA Focus: Safety, Cleanliness & Accessibility
MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt addressed state lawmakers at the Georgia State Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 7, emphasizing the agency’s comprehensive planning efforts.
“Is MARTA going to be World Cup ready? Our resounding answer is yes,” Hunt declared, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.
Key priorities include enhanced operational reliability, improved security, and better passenger flow. On game days with high expected demand, MARTA plans to run additional trains and increase service frequency to accommodate crowds.
Safety remains a top focus, with Hunt highlighting significant progress: violent crime on the system has decreased by 50% over the past six years, and overall crime dropped 28% last year
To bolster security during the tournament, MARTA has recruited more police officers and will bring in support from other national transit agencies.
“We’re focused on cleanliness. We’re focused on delivering a safe, clean, reliable service to the region for the World Cup,” Hunt said. “We’ve deployed a lot of resources and have a very large World Cup planning initiative underway.”
As the city preps for the matches overall, looking ahead, MARTA is set to roll out several upgrades before the matches begin, including new rail cars, an improved payment system, and a new bus rapid transit line.
These improvements aim to provide a seamless experience for global visitors while delivering lasting benefits for daily commuters and boosting overall ridership.
Hunt acknowledged that some short-term disruptions may occur during these enhancements but stressed the long-term payoff: “We’re not satisfied with a good transit system here in the state. So, we’re going to go from good to great.”
As Atlanta steps onto the world stage, MARTA’s preparations underscore the city’s commitment to hosting a smooth and memorable World Cup experience for everyone.
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As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the Atlanta Falcons have wrapped up with an 8-9 record and a third-place finish in the NFC South. That positioning has now finalized the team’s opponents for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
The Falcons will once again face their NFC South rivals twice each – home and away – while matching up against the full NFC North and AFC North divisions.
Falcons’ 2026 Opponents Revealed
Additional games come from the rotating schedule: a road trip to face the third-place NFC East finisher (Washington Commanders) and home contests against the third-place teams from the NFC West (San Francisco 49ers) and AFC West (Kansas City Chiefs).
Here’s the complete breakdown of the Falcons’ 2026 opponents, with each team’s 2025 record noted for context:
Home Opponents at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- Chicago Bears (11-6)
- Detroit Lions (9-8)
- Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
- Cincinnati Bengals (6-11)
- San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
- Kansas City Chiefs (6-11)
Note: One of these home games will be designated as an international matchup, per the NFL’s award to the Falcons in December 2025. The specific opponent, location, and date will be revealed later.
Away Opponents
- at Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- at New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- at Green Bay Packers (9-7-1)
- at Minnesota Vikings (9-8)
- at Cleveland Browns (5-12)
- at Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
- at Washington Commanders (5-12)
The full 2026 schedule, including dates, times, and prime-time slots, will be released by the NFL this spring. In the meantime, Falcons fans can start marking their calendars for what promises to be an exciting slate right here in Atlanta!
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for all the latest Falcons news, analysis, and offseason updates as the team gears up for 2026. Rise Up!
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In a league where superstars can shift the balance of power overnight, the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly positioning themselves for one of the biggest acquisitions in franchise history: Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis.
As the 2025-26 NBA trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling that the Hawks could be the frontrunners to land the nine-time All-Star, potentially reshaping the Eastern Conference and igniting a new era of Hawks basketball.
Hawks Considering Anthony Davis
Sources indicate that the Hawks have Davis high on their wish list, viewing him as a transformative piece who could anchor their defense and provide elite scoring alongside emerging talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels.
With Atlanta having traded All-Star guard Trae Young—whose dynamic playstyle has been a staple but perhaps not the perfect fit for long-term contention—the team sees a potential deal for Davis as a way to pivot toward a more balanced, championship-caliber roster.
Davis, currently with the Mavericks, has been the subject of intense speculation amid Dallas’s recent skid and questions about their title window.
The 32-year-old big man, known for his dominant two-way play, is averaging impressive numbers this season despite the team’s struggles.
League insiders report that Davis is open to a move to Atlanta, where he could sign an extension and chase another ring in a fresh environment.
This willingness aligns with Atlanta’s aggressive approach, as the Hawks join the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors as expected suitors.
However, the path to acquiring Davis isn’t without hurdles.
The Hawks are reportedly not rushing a Young trade, and financial considerations loom large—pairing Davis’s max contract with Young’s would be challenging, making a Young-for-Davis swap unlikely given Dallas’s lack of interest.
Instead, Atlanta might need to orchestrate a multi-team deal, potentially involving assets like their control over the New Orleans Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick, which has drawn interest from the Mavericks in return packages.
Critics argue that passing on Davis could be a missed opportunity for the Hawks, especially as they aim to climb back into playoff relevance after a middling start to the season.
Imagine Davis patrolling the paint at State Farm Arena, blocking shots and posterizing opponents—it’s the kind of addition that could electrify the fanbase and make Atlanta a destination for free agents once again.
As talks heat up, Hawks fans should stay tuned. If this deal materializes, it could be the spark that propels Atlanta back into the NBA’s elite. What do you think, ATL? Sound off in the comments below!
